Real-time determination of funds availability for checks and ach items

ABSTRACT

A method including: providing a processing mechanism in data communication through a network with a first entity and a plurality of depository financial institutions; receiving a first inquiry at the processing mechanism through the network from the first entity; storing the first inquiry received from the first entity; sending a second inquiry from the processing mechanism through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry; receiving a first response at the processing mechanism through the network from the second entity; storing the first response received from the second entity; and sending a second response from the processing mechanism through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first response. Other embodiments are provided.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to financial transaction processing, and relates more particularly to real-time determination of funds availability for check and ACH (Automated Clearing House) items.

BACKGROUND

When a first financial institution receives a payment item from a payee, such as a check or an ACH item, to be paid from a payor's account maintained by a second financial institution, the first financial institution generally does not interact with the second financial institution to determine whether to accept the transaction and/or make the funds for the payment item immediately available to the payee. Instead, the first financial institution generally makes that determination based on information about the payee, such as the payee's credit history and/or information about the payee's account(s) (e.g., account balances) maintained by the first financial institution. In some instances, the first financial institution may seek information about the payor's account maintained by the second financial institution through a third-party fraud-prevention service, which generally provides information about whether the account is open and in good status, has had recent activity for not-sufficient funds (NSF) or other return activity, or had a stop payment order. The fraud-prevention service generally derives this information based on overnight batch data received from financial institutions, which in some cases can include the second financial institution.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To facilitate further description of the embodiments, the following drawings are provided in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system that can be employed for real-time determination of funds availability for check and ACH items, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary workflow for real-time determination of funds availability sent from a first financial institution through a system with a second financial institution determining a payment likelihood and without the system making a routing decision, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary workflow for real-time determination of funds availability sent from the first financial institution of FIG. 2 through the system of FIG. 2 with the system of FIG. 2 making a routing decision of whether to have the second financial institution of FIG. 2 determine a payment likelihood, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary workflow for real-time determination of funds availability sent from the first financial institution of FIG. 2 to the system of FIG. 2 for determining a payment likelihood, according to various embodiments;

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary flow chart for a method to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary flow chart for a method to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary flow chart for a method to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 8 illustrates a computer that is suitable for implementing an embodiment of the system of FIG. 1 and/or the system of FIG. 2; and

FIG. 9 illustrates a representative block diagram of an example of elements included in circuit boards inside a chassis of the computer of FIG. 8.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. The same reference numerals in different figures denote the same elements.

The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms “include,” and “have,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

The terms “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “over,” “under,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments of the apparatus, methods, and/or articles of manufacture described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

The terms “couple,” “coupled,” “couples,” “coupling,” and the like should be broadly understood and refer to connecting two or more elements mechanically and/or otherwise. Two or more electrical elements may be electrically coupled together, but not be mechanically or otherwise coupled together. Coupling may be for any length of time, e.g., permanent or semi-permanent or only for an instant. “Electrical coupling” and the like should be broadly understood and include electrical coupling of all types. The absence of the word “removably,” “removable,” and the like near the word “coupled,” and the like does not mean that the coupling, etc. in question is or is not removable.

As defined herein, two or more elements are “integral” if they are comprised of the same piece of material. As defined herein, two or more elements are “non-integral” if each is comprised of a different piece of material.

As defined herein, “approximately” can, in some embodiments, mean within plus or minus ten percent of the stated value. In other embodiments, “approximately” can mean within plus or minus five percent of the stated value. In further embodiments, “approximately” can mean within plus or minus three percent of the stated value. In yet other embodiments, “approximately” can mean within plus or minus one percent of the stated value.

As defined herein, “real-time” can, in some embodiments, be defined with respect to operations carried out as soon as practically possible upon occurrence of a triggering event. A triggering event can include receipt of data necessary to execute a task or to otherwise process information. Because of delays inherent in transmission and/or in computing speeds, the term “real time” encompasses operations that occur in “near” real time or somewhat delayed from a triggering event. In a number of embodiments, “real time” can mean real time less a time delay for processing (e.g., determining) and/or transmitting data. The particular time delay can vary depending on the type and/or amount of the data, the processing speeds of the hardware, the transmission capability of the communication hardware, the transmission distance, etc. However, in many embodiments, the time delay can be less than approximately one second, five seconds, ten seconds, thirty seconds, one minute, five minutes, or ten minutes.

DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF EMBODIMENTS

Various embodiments include a method to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item. The method can include providing a processing mechanism in data communication through a network with a first entity and a plurality of depository financial institutions. The plurality of depository financial institutions can include a second entity. The method also can include receiving a first inquiry at the processing mechanism through the network from the first entity. The first inquiry can be received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item. The method further can include storing the first inquiry received from the first entity. The method additionally can include sending a second inquiry from the processing mechanism through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry. The second inquiry can be based at least in part on the first inquiry. The method further can include receiving a first response at the processing mechanism through the network from the second entity. The first response can be sent by the second entity in real time in response to receiving the second inquiry. The method additionally can include storing the first response received from the second entity. The method further can include sending a second response from the processing mechanism through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first response. The second response can be based at least in part on the first response. The second entity can be specified by the payment item as being responsible for paying the payment item. The first entity can be different from the second entity. The first and second responses each can include a payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity that indicates a likelihood of the second entity to pay the payment item. The payment likelihood indicator can be based at least in part on a current status and a current available balance of an account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item for payment of the payment item.

A number of embodiments include a system to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item. The system can include one or more processing modules in data communication through a network with a first entity and a plurality of depository financial institutions. The plurality of depository financial institutions can include a second entity. The system also can include one or more non-transitory memory storage modules storing computing instructions configured to run on the one or more processing modules and perform one or more acts. The one or more acts can include receiving a first inquiry at the processing mechanism through the network from the first entity. The first inquiry can be received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item. The one or more acts also can include storing the first inquiry received from the first entity. The one or more acts additionally can include sending a second inquiry from the processing mechanism through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry. The second inquiry can be based at least in part on the first inquiry. The one or more acts further can include receiving a first response at the processing mechanism through the network from the second entity. The first response can be sent by the second entity in real time in response to receiving the second inquiry. The one or more acts additionally can include storing the first response received from the second entity. The one or more acts further can include sending a second response from the processing mechanism through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first response. The second response can be based at least in part on the first response. The second entity can be specified by the payment item as being responsible for paying the payment item. The first entity can be different from the second entity. The first and second responses each can include a payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity that indicates a likelihood of the second entity to pay the payment item. The payment likelihood indicator can be based at least in part on a current status and a current available balance of an account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item for payment of the payment item.

Some embodiments can include a method to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item. The method can be implemented via execution of computer instructions configured to run at one or more processing modules and configured to be stored at one or more non-transitory memory storage modules. The method can include receiving a first inquiry through a network from a first entity. The first inquiry can be received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item. the method also can include determining a routing decision of whether or not to route the first inquiry to a second entity. The second entity can be a depository financial institution that is specified by the payment item as responsible for paying the payment item. The routing decision can be based at least in part on a risk of non-payment of the payment item by the second entity. The method further can include, if the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity, sending a first response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry. The method additionally can include, if the routing decision is to route the first inquiry to the second entity, sending a second inquiry through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry. The second inquiry can be based at least in part on the first inquiry. The method further can include, if the routing decision is to route the first inquiry to the second entity, receiving a second response through the network from the second entity. The second response can be sent by the second entity in real time in response to receiving the second inquiry. The method additionally can include, if the routing decision is to route the first inquiry to the second entity, storing the second response received from the second entity. The method further can include, if the routing decision is to route the first inquiry to the second entity, sending a third response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the second response. The third response can be based at least in part on the second response. The first entity can be different from the second entity.

Many embodiments can include a system to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item. The system can include one or more processing modules in data communication through a network with a first entity and a second entity. The system also can include one or more non-transitory memory storage modules storing computing instructions configured to run on the one or more processing modules and perform one or more acts. The one or more acts can include receiving a first inquiry through a network from a first entity. The first inquiry can be received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item. the one or more acts also can include determining a routing decision of whether or not to route the first inquiry to a second entity. The second entity can be a depository financial institution that is specified by the payment item as responsible for paying the payment item. The routing decision can be based at least in part on a risk of non-payment of the payment item by the second entity. The one or more acts further can include, if the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity, sending a first response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry. The one or more acts additionally can include, if the routing decision is to route the first inquiry to the second entity, sending a second inquiry through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry. The second inquiry can be based at least in part on the first inquiry. The one or more acts further can include, if the routing decision is to route the first inquiry to the second entity, receiving a second response through the network from the second entity. The second response can be sent by the second entity in real time in response to receiving the second inquiry. The one or more acts additionally can include, if the routing decision is to route the first inquiry to the second entity, storing the second response received from the second entity. The one or more acts further can include, if the routing decision is to route the first inquiry to the second entity, sending a third response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the second response. The third response can be based at least in part on the second response. The first entity can be different from the second entity.

Further embodiments can include a method to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item. The method can be implemented via execution of computer instructions configured to run at one or more processing modules and configured to be stored at one or more non-transitory memory storage modules. The method can include receiving at least hourly updated account data comprising current statuses and current available balances of accounts maintained by one or more depository financial institutions. The method also can include receiving an inquiry through a network from a first entity. The inquiry can be received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item. The payment item can specify a second entity as responsible for paying the payment item. The payment item can specify an account maintained by the second entity for payment of the payment item. The one or more depository financial institutions can include the second entity. The method additionally can include determining a payment likelihood indicator based at least in part on a status and an available balance of the account as updated by the updated account data. The payment likelihood indicator can indicate a likelihood of the second entity to pay the payment item. The method further can include storing the payment likelihood indicator. The method additionally can include sending a response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the inquiry. The response can include the payment likelihood indicator. The first entity can be different from the second entity.

In certain embodiments of the method, the payment item can include a check. The first entity can be a depository financial institution receiving the check for deposit. The second entity can be a depository financial institution against which the check has been drawn.

In certain embodiments of the method, the payment item can include an ACH item. The first entity can be an originating depository financial institution. The second entity can be a receiving depository financial institution. In some embodiments, the first entity can be a processor or a third party acting on behalf of the originating depository financial institution. In a number of embodiments, the second entity can be a processor or a third party acting on behalf of the receiving depository financial institution.

In certain embodiments of the method, the inquiry can include a routing number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; an account number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; a payment amount that is specified by the payment item; an identifier of the first entity; a transaction channel identifier that indicates the channel through which a transacting entity presented the payment item to the first entity; a payment distribution method identifier that indicates how the transacting entity requested to be paid for the payment item by the first entity; an account number of the first entity associated with the transacting entity; and if the payment item is a check, a serial number of the check.

In certain embodiments of the method, the payment likelihood indicator in the response can include an indication of whether or not the second entity guarantees payment of the payment item.

In certain embodiments of the method, the payment likelihood indicator in the response can include a score.

In certain embodiments of the method, the response further can include one or more reason indicators to explain the payment likelihood indicator.

In certain embodiments of the method, the response can be sent within 30 seconds of receiving the inquiry. The payment item can include one of a check or an ACH item.

Still further embodiments can include a system to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item. The system can include one or more processing modules in data communication through a network with a first entity and one or more depository financial institutions. The one or more depository financial institutions can include a second entity. The system also can include one or more non-transitory memory storage modules storing computing instructions configured to run on the one or more processing modules and perform one or more acts. The one or more acts can include receiving at least hourly updated account data comprising current statuses and current available balances of accounts maintained by one or more depository financial institutions. The one or more acts also can include receiving an inquiry through a network from a first entity. The inquiry can be received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item. The payment item can specify a second entity as responsible for paying the payment item. The payment item can specify an account maintained by the second entity for payment of the payment item. The one or more depository financial institutions can include the second entity. The one or more acts additionally can include determining a payment likelihood indicator based at least in part on a status and an available balance of the account as updated by the updated account data. The payment likelihood indicator can indicate a likelihood of the second entity to pay the payment item. The one or more acts further can include storing the payment likelihood indicator. The one or more acts additionally can include sending a response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the inquiry. The response can include the payment likelihood indicator. The first entity can be different from the second entity.

In certain embodiments of the system, the payment item can include a check. The first entity can be a depository financial institution receiving the check for deposit. The second entity can be a depository financial institution against which the check has been drawn.

In certain embodiments of the system, the payment item can include an ACH item. The first entity can be an originating depository financial institution. The second entity can be a receiving depository financial institution.

In certain embodiments of the system, the inquiry can include a routing number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; an account number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; a payment amount that is specified by the payment item; an identifier of the first entity; a transaction channel identifier that indicates the channel through which a transacting entity presented the payment item to the first entity; a payment distribution method identifier that indicates how the transacting entity requested to be paid for the payment item by the first entity; an account number of the first entity associated with the transacting entity; and if the payment item is a check, a serial number of the check.

In certain embodiments of the system, the payment likelihood indicator in the response can include an indication of whether or not the second entity guarantees payment of the payment item.

In certain embodiments of the system, the payment likelihood indicator in the response can include a score.

In certain embodiments of the system, the response further can include one or more reason indicators to explain the payment likelihood indicator.

In certain embodiments of the system, the response can be sent within 30 seconds of receiving the inquiry. The payment item can include one of a check or an ACH item.

Turning to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system 100 that can be employed for real-time determination of funds availability for check and ACH items, according to an embodiment. System 100 is merely exemplary and embodiments of the system are not limited to the embodiments presented herein. The system can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In some embodiments, certain elements or modules of system 100 can perform various procedures, processes, and/or activities. In other embodiments, the procedures, processes, and/or activities can be performed by other suitable elements or modules of system 100. In some embodiments, system 100 can include a system 110. System 110 can be a computer system, such as computer system 800, as shown in FIG. 8 and described below, and can each be a single computer, a single server, or a cluster or collection of computers or servers, or a cloud of computers or servers. In several embodiments, system 110 can include a database 111. In a number of embodiments, system 110 can include one or more modules, such as a communications module 112, a data module 113, a risk engine 114, and/or a likelihood calculation engine 115, which are described below in further detail.

In many embodiments, system 110 can be in data communication through a network 120 with financial institutions, such as financial institutions 131, 132, 133, and/or 134. Network 120 can be the Internet or another suitable computer data network. In certain embodiments, each of financial institutions 131-134 can include a computer system, such as computer system 800, as shown in FIG. 8 and described below, and can each be a single computer, a single server, or a cluster or collection of computers or servers, or a cloud of computers or servers. In many embodiments, the financial institutions (e.g., 131-134) can be depository financial institutions, such as savings banks, credit unions, savings and loan associations, etc. In other embodiments, other forms of financial institutions and/or other entities can be connected to system 110 through network 120.

In a number of embodiments, system 110 can regularly receive information from financial institutions, such as financial institutions 131-134, about accounts maintained by the financial institutions (e.g., 131-134). In various embodiments, the information received from the financial institutions can be stored in database 111. For example, in many embodiments, each of financial institutions (e.g., 131-134) can provide overnight batch data to system 110, which can include information about whether accounts are open and in good status, what balances are available in the open accounts, whether accounts have had recent NSF or other activity, and/or whether accounts have had a stop payment order. In a number of embodiments, system 110 can use the data provided by the financial institutions to provide fraud-prevention services to financial institutions (e.g., 131-134). For example, if a payee attempts to cash a check at financial institution 131 for a check drawn on a payor's account maintained at financial institution 132, financial institution 131 can inquire with system 110 about information regarding the payor's account at financial institution 132.

In the same or other embodiments, system 110 can provide for interaction between the financial institutions (e.g., 131-134). For example, in many embodiments, system 110 can provide protocols for a financial institution (e.g., 131) to communicate with another one of the financial institutions (e.g., 132) through system 110 to obtain additional information about whether the other financial institution (e.g., 132) that is specified as responsible for paying a payment item is likely to pay the payment item. In some embodiments, the payment item can be a check. In other embodiments, the payment item can be an ACH item. For example, a check can be drawn on an account at the other financial institution (e.g., 132), or an ACH item can specific an account at the other financial institution (e.g., 132) for payment, and financial institution 132 can be deemed responsible for paying the payment item using the specified account. In a number of embodiments, the interactions between the financial institutions (e.g., 131-134) through system 110 can be limited to inquiries regarding checks or ACH items, and not include inquiries regarding payment card transactions (e.g., debit card, credit card, etc.). In other embodiments, the interactions between the financial institutions (e.g., 131-134) through system 110 can include payment card transactions.

In some embodiments, system 110 can determine whether to route an inquiry from a financial institution (e.g., 131) receiving a payment item to another financial institution (e.g., 132) specified by the payment item as responsible for paying the payment item. The determination can be based on one or more factors, as described below in further detail. In several embodiments, the financial institution (e.g., 132) that is specified by the payment item as responsible for paying the payment item can respond with information regarding a likelihood of that financial institution (e.g., 132) paying the payment item. In other embodiments, information regarding a likelihood of that financial institution (e.g., 132) to pay the payment item, such as information provided regularly (e.g., twice daily, hourly, half-hourly, on each transaction, etc.), can be provided to system 110 by that financial institution (e.g., 132). In many embodiments, the financial institution (e.g., 131) that received the payment item can receive the information regarding the likelihood of payment by the financial institution (e.g., 132) that is specified by the payment item as responsible for paying the payment item, and can use that information and/or other information provided by system 110 to determine whether to approve or deny the transaction. In many embodiments, system 110 can facilitate real-time determination of funds availability on a scale of many financial institutions (e.g., greater than 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 10,000, or more financial institutions) and can facilitate many such transactions (e.g., greater than 100, 1,000, 10,000, 100,000, 1,000,000, 10,000,000, or more per day) through system 110.

In certain embodiments, system 110 can provide interaction between the financial institutions (e.g., 131-134) for providing credit push notifications. For example, in many embodiments, system 110 can provide protocols for a financial institution (e.g., 131) to communicate with another one of the financial institutions (e.g., 132) through system 110 to notify the other financial institution (e.g., 132) of a credit push payment. In some embodiments, for example, a customer can initiate notification of an ACH credit transaction at financial institution 131 (which can be an originating depository financial institution (ODFI)) to credit an account of a recipient at financial institution 132 (which can be a receiving depository financial institution (RDFI)), which can result in a memo post to the account of the recipient at financial institution 132 in real time. In many embodiments, the credit push transaction can be cleared through conventional batch processing (e.g., nightly or interim day batch processing), and the notification can be sent from financial institution 131 through system 110 to financial institution 132 in real time, which can beneficially provide financial institution 132 with information about future credits to be posted to the account of the recipient at financial institution 132. In many embodiments, system 110 can store the transaction, such as in database 111.

Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary workflow 200 for real-time determination of funds availability sent from a first financial institution 202 through a system 203 with a second financial institution 204 determining a payment likelihood and without system 203 making a routing decision, according to various embodiments. Workflow 200 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Workflow 200 can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of workflow 200 can be performed in the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of workflow 200 can be performed in any suitable order. In still other embodiments, one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of workflow 200 can be combined or skipped. System 203 can be similar or identical to system 110 (FIG. 1).

In some embodiments, workflow 200 can begin with an activity 211 of an entity, such as consumer 201, presenting a payment item to a first financial institution 202 for a transaction. For example, consumer 201 can present a check for $500 to be cashed at a financial institution, such as first financial institution 202. The check can be drawn by a payor against an account of the payor at another financial institution, such as second financial institution 204. In many embodiments, consumer 201 can be the payee, endorsee, or bearer of the check. As another example, consumer 201 can make an online purchase at an online retailer by using checking or savings account information for an account maintained at a financial institution, such as second financial institution 204, and the online retailer can be the originator that presents an ACH payment item based on the checking or savings account information to an originating depository financial institution (ODFI). In various embodiments, consumer 201, the originator, and/or the payor can use the payment item to attempt to effect a transfer of funds (e.g., make a payment, receive a payment, make a deposit, and/or cash the payment item) and/or to determine an availability of funds to be transferred using the payment item. For example, the originator can request that the ACH payment item be screened through the ODFI.

In many embodiments, workflow 200 can continue with an activity 212 of the payment item being received by first financial institution 202. For example, first financial institution 202 can receive a physical check or information regarding the payment item. For example, the payment item can be received through an automated teller machine (ATM), a teller, mail, an online transaction, an online request, remote deposit capture (RDC), lock box, in-store, check processor, or another channel. In other embodiments, first financial institution 202 can be replaced by the originator (such as a merchant) or a payment processor, which can interact directly with system 203. In some embodiments, first financial institution 202 can be a processor or a third party acting on behalf of the ODFI. In a number of embodiments, the second entity can be a processor or a third party acting on behalf of the RDFI.

In some embodiments, workflow 200 can continue with an activity 213 of first financial institution 202 determining whether to make an inquiry to system 203 and/or storing the determination. In some embodiments, first financial institution 202 can automatically send an inquiry to system 203 after receiving a payment item. In other embodiments, first financial institution 202 can make an internal risk decision based on one or more factors, such as the relationship between first financial institution 202 and the requestor (e.g., consumer 201 or the originator who provided the payment item to first financial institution 202). For example, the requestor can have one or more accounts at first financial institution 202. The internal risk decision can be based on the account balances of the requestor at first financial institution 202, return activity of the requestor at first financial institution 202, a date of the payment item, a payment amount of the payment item, and/or a relationship history of deposits of the requestor at first financial institution 202. In addition, or alternatively, the internal risk decision can be based on a relationship history of the payor with first financial institution 202. First financial institution 202 can store the internal risk decision.

In many embodiments, workflow 200 can continue with an activity 214 of first financial institution 202 sending an inquiry to system 203, and/or system 203 receiving the inquiry from financial institution 202. In a number of embodiments, the inquiry can be sent from first financial institution 202 to system 203 in real time after activity 212 of first financial institution 202 receiving the payment item. In several embodiments, the inquiry can include information from the payment item identifying the account of the payor, the financial institution (e.g., second financial institution 204) maintaining the account of the payor, information regarding the requestor, the channel through which the request was made, the type of transaction, and/or other information. For example, in some embodiments, the inquiry can include: (1) the routing number (e.g. American Bankers Association (ABA) routing transit number (RTN)) specified by the payment item; (2) the account number specified by the payment item; (3) if the payment item is a check, a serial number of the check; (4) an account transaction (“trans”) code specified by the payment item; (5) a dollar amount specified by the payment item; (6) an identifier for the originator, requestor, and/or first financial institution 202; (7) one or more channel indicators (e.g., ATM, a teller, mail, an online transaction, the identity of the online device, the location of the online device, RDC, lock box, in-store, check processor, and/or another channel); (8) an identifier of what the requestor has requested with the transaction (e.g., cash, deposit, or payment); (9) an identifier of the type (e.g., check, ACH item, Standard for Financial Services Messaging (ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 20022), certified check, payment cards (debit card, credit card), etc.); (10) transaction identifier (ID) or sequence number for the transaction (which can be generated by system 203); (11) an account number of the requestor, payee, and/or depositor; and/or other suitable information. For example, in some embodiments, the inquiry can include a debit card number for a debit card associated with the account of the payor. In some embodiments, the debit card number can be included in the inquiry in lieu of the routing number and/or the account number. In a number of embodiments, the inquiry can include a transaction business date. In certain embodiments, the inquiry can include a primary client ID or other ID, a transaction ID, and/or an item ID for the payment item.

In certain embodiments, the inquiry can include an identifier linked to the account of the payor. In some embodiments, an identifier can be included in the inquiry in lieu of the routing number and/or the account number. For example, the identifier can include a tokenized or masked token, which can be an identifier which can be linked to the account of the payor. In some embodiments, the token can be a temporary (e.g., one-time use, or limited-time use) identifier. In a number of embodiments, the token include an encrypted identifier. In some embodiments, the identifier in the inquiry can include an email address of the payor, a phone number of the payor, a device ID of the payor, the name of the payor, a debit card number of the payor, a transaction business date, a transaction ID, an item ID, and/or a client ID. In a number of embodiments, such as when the account number and/or routing number is tokenized, the inquiry can include a tokenized service manager ID.

In many embodiments, workflow 200 can continue with an activity 215 of system 203 storing the inquiry sent from first financial institution 202. The inquiry can be stored in database 111 (FIG. 1), and can include a timestamp of when the inquiry was received at system 203. In some embodiments when the inquiry includes an identifier, system 203 can determine the account number and/or routing number from the identifier.

In many embodiments, workflow 200 can continue with an activity 216 of system 203 sending an inquiry to second financial institution 204, and/or second financial institution 204 receiving the inquiry from system 203. In a number of embodiments, the inquiry can be sent from system 203 to second financial institution 204 in real time after activity 214 of system 203 receiving the inquiry. In many embodiments, the inquiry sent to second financial institution 204 in activity 216 can be similar or identical to the inquiry received by system 203 in activity 214. In some embodiments, such as when the inquiry of activity 214 includes an identifier, the inquiry of activity 216 can include the account number and/or routing number from the identifier. In other embodiments, activity 216 can include the identifier in lieu of the account number and/or routing number, and second financial institution 204 can determine the account number and/or routing number from the identifier.

In several embodiments, workflow 200 can continue with an activity 217 of second financial institution 204 determining and/or saving a payment likelihood. In various embodiments, determining the payment likelihood can be based at least in part on current information of the payor's account maintained by second financial institution 204 and/or information provided to second financial institution 204 in the inquiry. In many embodiments, the financial institutions (e.g., second financial institution 204) that participate in services offered through system 203 and provide payment likelihood for real-time determination of funds availability can have agreed to common consortium rules to be used when determining a payment likelihood. The common consortium rules can advantageously provide consistency across determinations made and information provided by different financial institutions. In some embodiments, the providers of system 203 can dictate the consortium rules to the financial institutions (e.g., second financial institution 204) that provide payment likelihood information.

In several embodiments, the consortium rules can address information that an inquirer (e.g., first financial institution 202) might want to know in determining whether to approve or deny a transaction, such as current account status and sufficiency of funds to cover the payment item, risk of fraud, money laundering, and/or other factors. Second financial institution 204, which is specified as responsible for paying the payment item, can beneficially have current detailed information regarding the payor and/or the payor's account maintained by second financial institution 204. For example, in some embodiments, activity 217 of second financial institution 204 determining the payment likelihood can be based on one or more rules, such as: (1) determining whether the payor's account is currently open (e.g., based on intra-day status, if the account is opened or closed during the day of the inquiry); (2) determining whether the current balance and/or available balance (e.g., the current balance adjusted by pending transactions that have not yet cleared) of the payor's account is greater than the amount specified by the payment item (e.g., is greater than or equal to the payment amount, is greater than the payment amount by a predetermined amount (e.g., is the balance at least $200 greater than the payment amount), or is greater than the payment amount by a factor of the payment amount (e.g. is the balance at least 150% of the payment amount)); (3) determining whether the payment amount is in a range of historical spending amounts by the payor (e.g., determining whether the payment amount is consistent with the payor's spending habits); (4) determining whether there is a likelihood of a deposit to be made into the account (e.g., on the day of the inquiry) that would make the payor's account able to cover the payment item, or expected withdrawals that would make the payor's account unable to cover the payment item; (5) determining whether the payment item is consistent with a pattern, if any, between the payee and the payor; (6) determining whether other payment items have been drawn on and/or presented for clearing against the payor's account (e.g., other pending charges) that would affect whether the payor's account could cover the payment item; (7) determining whether there is a risk of fraud based on activity that matches a fraudulent pattern or is inconsistent with the payor's spending habits; (8) determining whether there is a risk of fraud based on how recently the payor's account was opened; (9) determining whether there is a risk of fraud based on the channel used to present the payment; (10) determining whether there is a likelihood of money laundering based on transaction payment amounts, and/or the identities of the payor and/or payee; (11) if the payment item is a check, determining if the account is uses the Positive Pay verification service, and if so, verifying that the check is on the list provided by the payor and if the check has already been paid; (12) if the payment item is a check, determining whether the serial number of the check is in pattern (e.g., whether the serial number of the check is not within the range of serial numbers in one or more checkbooks that have been used recently for the payor's account); (13) if the payment item is a check, determining whether the check is a duplicate of an already-paid check; (14) if the payment item is a check, determining whether the check is likely a counterfeit, such as based on a statistical analysis; and/or other suitable rules.

In a number of embodiments, the rules can be used to determine a likelihood of whether or not the payment item will clear the payor's account at second financial institution 204. For example, in some embodiments, second financial institution 204 can determine a payment likelihood indicator, which can be whether or not second financial institution 204 guarantees payment of the payment item (e.g., either guarantees payment or does not guarantee payment) or whether or not second financial 204 is likely to pay the payment item (e.g., either is likely to pay or is not likely to pay). In the same or other embodiments, second financial institution 204 can determine a payment likelihood score, and the payment likelihood indicator can include the payment likelihood score. In some embodiments, the payment likelihood score can be a numeric score (e.g., 0-100), an alphabetic score (e.g., A-Z), a color score (e.g., red, yellow, or green), or another suitable type of score. In some embodiments, the payment likelihood indicator can include an expiration date/time. For example, the guarantee can have an expiration date/time after which the guarantee or payment likelihood indicator will expire.

In a number of embodiments, the payment likelihood indicator can include reason indicators (e.g., reason codes, explanations, attributes, etc.) that explain the reasons for the payment likelihood indicator. For example, the reasons can include: (1) that the payment item is not found on Positive Pay; (2) that the item is a possible duplicate; (3) that the account is closed; (4) that there has been fraud or the payment item is likely to be fraud on the account; (5) that the payment item is likely to be a counterfeit; (6) that the payment amount specified by the payment item is greater than the current and/or available balance of the payor's account; (6) that the payor's account is overdrawn or has an NSF status; (7) that the account has a sufficient balance; (8) that payment item is or is not in pattern (e.g., payment amount is consistent with transaction history, that the serial number is in the range of serial numbers in one or more checkbooks that have been used recently for the payor's account, etc.); (9) that the expected balance is or is not sufficient, based on expected deposits and/or payments; (10) that the payment is or is not in pattern for transactions between the payor and the payee; (11) that the item is on Positive Pay and is verified; and/or other suitable reasons.

In many embodiments, workflow 200 can continue with an activity 218 of second financial institution 204 sending a response to system 203, and/or system 203 receiving the response from second financial institution 204. In a number of embodiments, the response can be sent from second financial institution 204 to system 203 in real time after activity 216 of second financial institution 204 receiving the inquiry. In several embodiments, the response can include the payment likelihood indicator that was determined in activity 217. In some embodiments, the response can include information from the inquiry and/or information determined by second financial institution 204. For example, in a number of embodiments, the response can include: (1) the routing number (e.g. ABA RTN) specified by the payment item; (2) the account number specified by the payment item; (3) if the payment item is a check, a serial number of the check; (4) an account transaction (“trans”) code specified by the payment item; (5) a dollar amount specified by the payment item; (6) an identifier for the originator, requestor, and/or first financial institution 202; (7) one or more channel indicators (e.g., ATM, a teller, mail, an online transaction, the identity of the online device, the location of the online device, RDC, lock box, in-store, check processor, and/or another channel); (8) an identifier of what the requestor has requested with the transaction (e.g., cash, deposit, or payment); (9) an identifier of the type (e.g., check, ACH item, Standard for Financial Services Messaging (ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 20022), certified check, payment cards (debit card, credit card), etc.); (10) transaction identifier (ID) or sequence number for the transaction (which can be generated by system 203); (11) the account number of the requestor, payee, and/or depositor; (12) the date and/or time(s) of the inquiry/inquiries (e.g., based on the timestamp stored in activity 215 and/or the time the determination of the payment likelihood in activity 217); (13) the payment likelihood indicator (e.g., whether or not guaranteed to pay (which can include a guarantee expiration date/time), whether or not likely to pay; and/or the payment likelihood score); (14) the reason indicators for the payment likelihood indicator; and/or other suitable information.

In many embodiments, workflow 200 can continue with an activity 219 of system 203 storing the response sent from second financial institution 204 in activity 218. The inquiry can be stored in database 111 (FIG. 1), and can include a timestamp of when the response was received at system 203.

In some embodiments, workflow 200 can continue with an activity 220 of system 203 sending a response to first financial institution 202, and/or first financial institution 202 receiving the response from system 203. In a number of embodiments, the response can be sent from system 203 to first financial institution 202 in real time after activity 218 of system 203 receiving the response. In many embodiments, the response sent to first financial institution 202 in activity 220 can be similar or identical to the response received by system 203 in activity 218.

In several embodiments, workflow 200 can continue with an activity 221 of first financial institution 202 determining whether to approve or deny the transaction, actually approving or denying the transaction, storing the approval or denial, and/or notifying consumer 201 of such approval or denial. In various embodiments, first financial institution 202 can determine whether to approve or deny the transaction based at least in part on the response received by first financial institution 202 in activity 220. By incorporating insight from second financial institution 204, first financial institution 202 can advantageously make a more informed decision in determining the availability of funds for the payment item and in determining whether to approve or deny the transaction. For example, if the response includes a guarantee of payment or an indication or likelihood of payment by second financial institution 204, first financial institution 202 can approve the transaction. If the response includes the payment likelihood score, first financial institution 202 can determine whether the score indicates a low enough risk that first financial institution 202 can be comfortable with the risk of approving the transaction.

Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary workflow 300 for real-time determination of funds availability sent from first financial institution 202 through system 203 with system 203 making a routing decision of whether to have second financial institution 204 determine a payment likelihood, according to various embodiments. Workflow 300 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Workflow 300 can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of workflow 300 can be performed in the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of workflow 300 can be performed in any suitable order. In still other embodiments, one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of workflow 300 can be combined or skipped. Workflow 300 can be similar to workflow 200 (FIG. 2), and various activities of workflow 300 can be similar or identical to various activity of workflow 200 (FIG. 2).

In some embodiments, workflow 300 can begin with an activity 311 of an entity, such as consumer 201, presenting a payment item for a transaction. Activity 311 can be similar or identical to activity 211 (FIG. 2).

In many embodiments, workflow 300 can continue with an activity 312 of the payment item being received by first financial institution 202. Activity 312 can be similar or identical to activity 212 (FIG. 2).

In some embodiments, workflow 300 can continue with an activity 313 of first financial institution 202 determining whether to make an inquiry to system 203 and/or storing the determination. Activity 313 can be similar or identical to activity 213 (FIG. 2).

In many embodiments, workflow 300 can continue with an activity 314 of first financial institution 202 sending an inquiry to system 203, and/or system 203 receiving the inquiry from first financial institution 202. Activity 314 can be similar or identical to activity 214 (FIG. 2).

In a number of embodiments, workflow 300 can continue with an activity 315 of determining whether to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204 and/or storing the determination. In many embodiments, the routing decision can be based at least in part on a risk of non-payment of the payment item by the second entity. In many embodiments, the routing decision can be based on information received from financial institutions (e.g., 131-134 (FIG. 1), which can include first financial institution 202 and/or second financial institution 204), such as overnight batch data regarding whether accounts are open and in good status, what balances are available in the open accounts, whether accounts have had recent NSF or other activity, whether accounts had a stop payment order, and/or other suitable information. In some embodiments, system 203 can store the inquiry from first financial institution 202 received in activity 314 with or without a timestamp of when the inquiry was received by system 203, and system 203 can use database 111 (FIG. 1) to store the inquiry. In a number of embodiments, the routing decision can be based at least in part on other inquiries received earlier in the same day that are similar to the inquiry received in activity 314. In some embodiments, the financial institutions (e.g., 131-134 (FIG. 1), first financial institution 202, and/or second financial institution 204) can provide additional information to system 203 on a periodic or regular basis (e.g., daily, twice daily, hourly, half-hourly, on every transaction, etc.), which can be received by system 203 before receiving the inquiry in activity 314, which can be more up-to-date than overnight batch data, and which can be used by system 203 in some embodiments to determine the routing decision.

In several embodiments, the routing decision can be based on whether second financial institution 204 is setup to participate in online back-office validation to determine payment likelihood, and/or can be based on rules that determine a risk of non-payment, based on information made available to system 203 from the financial institutions (e.g., 131-134 (FIG. 1), first financial institution 202, and/or second financial institution 204) before receiving the inquiry in activity 314, based on earlier inquiries through system 203 (similar to the inquiry received in activity 314), and/or based on the inquiry received in activity 314. In some embodiments, when system 203 applies the rules to determines the risk of non-payment and the routing decision, system 203 can generate decision information, which can be returned to first financial institution 202 and/or sent to second financial institution 204.

In various embodiments, system 203 can determine whether the payment item is drawn on an invalid account. If the account specified by the payment item is not found, system 203 can generate decision information indicating that the account was not found and can determine not to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204.

In many embodiments, system 203 can determine whether the account specified by the payment item is open. If the account is closed, and has been closed for more than a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 7 days), system 203 can generate decision information that the account is closed and determine not to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204. In some embodiments, if the account has been closed for less than a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 7 days), system 203 can generate decision information that the account has been recently closed and can determine to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204.

In several embodiments, system 203 can determine, if the payment item is an ACH item, whether the account specified by the payment item has a “Post no Debits” status. If the account has a “Post no Debits” status, system 203 can generate decision information indicating that the account has a “Post no Debits” status and can determine not to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204.

In various embodiments, system 203 can determine, if the payment item is a check, whether the account specified by the payment item has a stop payment on the item. For example, the stop payment can be based on a three-field match of routing number, account number, and serial number, or a four-field match of routing number account number, serial number, and payment amount. If the account has a stop payment status, system 203 can generate decision information indicating that the account has a stop payment status and can determine not to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204.

In some embodiments, system 203 can determine, if the payment item is a check, whether the account specified by the payment item uses Positive Pay verification. In some embodiments, if the account uses Positive Pay verification, system 203 can generate decision information indicating that the account has uses Positive Pay verification. In some embodiments, system 203 can determine not to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204. In other embodiments, system 203 can determine to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204 for Positive Pay verification.

In many embodiments, system 203 can determine, if the payment item is a check, whether the check is likely a duplicate. If the check is likely a duplicate, system 203 can generate decision information indicating that the check is likely a duplicate and can determine not to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204.

In many embodiments, system 203 can determine, if the payment item is a check, whether the check is likely a counterfeit. If the check is likely a counterfeit, system 203 can generate decision information indicating that the check is likely a counterfeit and can determine not to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204.

In many embodiments, system 203 can determine whether the payment item is likely part of a money-laundering scheme. For example, system 203 can determine whether the payment item is likely part of a money-laundering scheme based on the payment amount of the payment item and/or other transactions, and/or the payee and/or payor for the payment item. If the payment item is likely part of a money-laundering scheme, system 203 can generate decision information indicating that the payment item is likely part of a money-laundering scheme and can determine not to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204.

In many embodiments, system 203 can determine whether the payment item is likely fraudulent. For example, system 203 can determine whether the payment item is likely fraudulent based on the channel used, whether the channel used is a new device, the authentication used in the channel, the location of the channel, whether the payor's account was recently opened, and/or whether the payment is consistent with transaction patterns for the payor and/or payee. If the payment item is likely fraudulent, system 203 can generate decision information indicating that the payment item is likely fraudulent and can determine not to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204.

In some embodiments, if system 203 has been provided with account balances (e.g., nightly, or more frequently), system 203 can determine whether the payment amount specified by the payment item is greater than the latest balance information received by system 203. In some embodiments, system 203 can generate decision information indicating that the payment item is likely unable to be covered by the payor's account and can determine not to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204.

In various embodiments, system 203 can determine whether the payment amount for the payment item is greater than or less than a predetermined amount. For certain financial institutions, and/or for certain accounts at certain financial institutions, the financial institution (e.g., either first financial institution 202 or second financial institution 204) might not want to have the inquiry routed to second financial institution 204 if the payment amount if below a predetermined amount (e.g., a payment amount below $10, $50, or $100). In such cases, system 203 can generate decision information indicating that the payment item is below a certain amount and determine not to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204.

In a number of embodiments, system 203 can determine whether second financial institution is setup to participate in online validation to determine payment likelihood. If second financial institution is not setup to participate in online validation, system 203 can generate decision information indicating that second financial institution 204 is not setup to participate in online validation, and can determine not to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204.

In many embodiments, if system 203 has determined to not route the inquiry to second financial institution 204, system 203 can instead respond to first financial institution 202. In such cases, workflow 300 can continue with an activity 316 of system 203 sending a response to first financial institution 202, and/or first financial institution 202 receiving the response from system 203. In a number of embodiments, the response can be sent from system 203 to first financial institution 204 in real time after activity 314 of system 203 receiving the inquiry. In many embodiments, the response sent to first financial institution 202 in activity 316 can include information from the inquiry and/or the decision information generated by system 203 in activity 315.

If system 203 has determined to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204, workflow 300 can continue with an activity 317 of system 203 sending an inquiry to second financial institution 204, and/or second financial institution 204 receiving the inquiry from system 203. Activity 317 can be similar or identical to activity 216 (FIG. 2). In some embodiments, the inquiry sent to second financial institution 204 in activity 317 can include the decision information, such as the determination of the risk of non-payment, generated by system 203 in activity 315, and/or the information received by system 203 from first financial institution 202 in activity 314. In other embodiments, the decision information generated by system 203 in activity 315 can be sent to second financial institution 204 in a separate informational message sent before or after the inquiry sent by system 203 to second financial institution 204 in activity 317. In yet other embodiments, after receiving the inquiry in activity 317, second financial institution 204 can send a request for additional information to system 203, and system 203 in response can send an informational message to second financial institution 204 than includes the decision information generated by system 203 in activity 315. In yet other embodiments, second financial institution 204 can proceed to determine the payment likelihood (described below) without the information generated by system 203 in activity 315.

In several embodiments, workflow 300 can continue with an activity 318 of second financial institution 204 determining a payment likelihood and/or storing the determination. Activity 318 can be similar or identical to activity 217 (FIG. 2). In various embodiments, determining the payment likelihood can be based at least in part on current information of the payor's account maintained by second financial institution 204, information provided to second financial institution 204 in the inquiry, and/or the decision information generated by system 203 in activity 315. In many embodiments, the information available to second financial institution 204 can be different than the information available to system 203. For example, the information available to second financial institution 204 can be current information, as opposed to information from the previous night, and/or one or more previous intra-day updates, which can beneficially allow second financial institution 204 to make decisions based on more current information. In some embodiments, system 203 can have information about the payor and/or payee at other financial institutions (e.g., 131-134 (FIG. 1)), which can beneficially allow system 203 to determine risks using aggregated information that is not otherwise available to second financial institution 204. As such, the information provided by system 203 to second financial institution 204 in certain embodiments, such as the decision information generated by system 203 in activity 315, can advantageously enhance the ability of second financial institution 204 to more accurately determine the payment likelihood, such as whether not to guarantee payment, whether or not to determine that payment is likely, and/or to accurately determine a payment likelihood score.

In many embodiments, workflow 300 can continue with an activity 319 of second financial institution 204 sending a response to system 203, and/or system 203 receiving the response from second financial institution 204. Activity 319 can be similar or identical to activity 218 (FIG. 2).

In various embodiments, workflow 300 can continue with an activity 320 of system 203 storing the response sent from second financial institution 204 in activity 319. Activity 320 can be similar or identical to activity 219 (FIG. 2).

In some embodiments, activity 320 can include system 203 further determining a payment likelihood based on the payment likelihood determined by and received from second financial institution 204 and also based on additional information available to system 203. In these embodiments, system 203 might have information that second financial institution 204 does not have, and therefore, system 203 can refine or further determine the payment likelihood that was originally made by second financial institution 204, and system 203 can store the refined determination. For example, as explained above with respect to activity 315, system 203 may have additional financial information about the payor's other bank accounts at other financial institutions that second financial institution 204 does not have. Similarly, system 203 may have financial information about second financial institution 204 that is not part of the response in activity 319 but that system 203 can use to refine or further determine the payment likelihood.

In some embodiments, workflow 300 can continue with an activity 321 of system 203 system 203 sending a response to first financial institution 202, and/or first financial institution 202 receiving the response from system 203. Activity 321 can be similar or identical to activity 220 (FIG. 2). In some embodiments, the decision information generated by system 203 in activity 315 can be added to the response to first financial institution 202, and/or other risk factors, such as whether the account was recently opened.

In several embodiments, workflow 300 can continue after activity 316 or activity 321 with an activity 322 of first financial institution 202 determining whether to approve or deny the transaction, actually approving or denying the transaction, storing the approval or denial, and/or notifying consumer 201 of such approval or denial. Activity 322 can be similar or identical to activity 221 (FIG. 2). By incorporating insight from second financial institution 204 (e.g., the payment likelihood decision determined in activity 318) and/or system 203 (e.g., the decision information generated in activity 315), first financial institution 202 can advantageously make a more informed decision in determining the availability of funds for the payment item and in determining whether to approve or deny the transaction.

In some embodiments, workflow 300 can optionally continue after activity 322 with an activity 323 of first financial institution 202 sending a payment decision message to system 203, and/or system 203 receiving a payment decision message from first financial institution 202. In a number of embodiments, the payment decision message can include information regarding whether first financial institution 202 accepted or denied the transaction. In some embodiments, the payment decision message can be sent from first financial institution 202 in real time after activity 316 or activity 321 of system 203 receiving the response.

In many embodiments, workflow 300 can continue with an activity 324 of system 203 storing the payment decision message sent from first financial institution 202 in activity 323. The payment decision message can be stored in database 111 (FIG. 1), and can include a timestamp of when the payment decision message was received at system 203.

In some embodiments, workflow 300 can further optionally continue with an activity 325 of system 203 sending a payment decision message to second financial institution 204, and/or second financial institution 204 receiving the payment decision message from system 203. In a number of embodiments, the payment decision message can be sent from system 203 to second financial institution 204 in real time after activity 323 of system 203 receiving the payment decision message in activity 323. In many embodiments, the payment decision message sent to second financial institution 204 in activity 325 can be similar or identical to the payment decision message received by system 203 in activity 323.

In some embodiments, workflow 300 can further optionally continue with an activity 326 of second financial institution 204 storing the payment decision message sent from system 203 in activity 325. Second financial institution 204 also can store a timestamp of when the payment decision message was received at second financial institution 204.

In various embodiments, the information in the payment decision message sent to system 203 and/or second financial institution 204 from first financial institution 202 can beneficially be used by system 203 and/or second financial institution 204 to determine risks in future transactions. In many embodiments, second financial institution 204 can use the information in the payment decision message to update a pending account status of the payor's account. In some embodiments, workflow 200 (FIG. 2) can similarly include sending a payment decision message to system 203 and/or second financial institution 204 such that activities 323, 324, 325, and 326 also can be part of workflow 200 (FIG. 2) by occurring after activity 221 (FIG. 2).

Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary workflow 400 for real-time determination of funds availability sent from first financial institution 202 to system 203 for determining a payment likelihood, according to various embodiments. Workflow 400 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Workflow 400 can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of workflow 400 can be performed in the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of workflow 400 can be performed in any suitable order. In still other embodiments, one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of workflow 400 can be combined or skipped. Workflow 400 can be similar to workflow 200 (FIG. 2) and/or workflow 300 (FIG. 3), and various activities of workflow 400 can be similar or identical to various activity of workflow 200 (FIG. 2) and/or workflow 300 (FIG. 3).

In some embodiments, workflow 400 can begin with an activity 411 of an entity, such as consumer 201, presenting a payment item for a transaction. Activity 411 can be similar or identical to activity 211 (FIG. 2) and/or activity 311 (FIG. 3).

In many embodiments, workflow 400 can continue with an activity 412 of the payment item being received by first financial institution 202. Activity 412 can be similar or identical to activity 212 (FIG. 2) and/or activity 312 (FIG. 3).

In some embodiments, workflow 400 can continue with an activity 413 of determining whether to make an inquiry to system 203 and/or storing the determination. Activity 413 can be similar or identical to activity 213 (FIG. 2) and/or activity 313 (FIG. 3).

In many embodiments, workflow 400 can continue with an activity 414 of first financial institution 202 sending an inquiry to system 203, and/or system 203 receiving the inquiry from first financial institution 202. Activity 414 can be similar or identical to activity 214 (FIG. 2) and/or activity 314 (FIG. 3).

In a number of embodiments, workflow 400 can continue with an activity 415 of system 203 determining a payment likelihood. Activity 415 can be similar to activity 217 (FIG. 2), activity 315 (FIG. 3), and/or activity 318 (FIG. 3). In some embodiments, system 203 can store the inquiry from first financial institution 202 received in activity 414 with or without a timestamp of when the inquiry was received by system 203, and system 203 can store the inquiry and/or timestamp in database 111 (FIG. 1). In a number of embodiments, system 203 can apply one or more of the rules applied in making the routing decision in activity 315 (FIG. 3) to determine a risk of non-payment, and/or system 203 can generate decision information, such as the decision information generated in activity 315 (FIG. 3), by applying the rules. System 203 can determine a payment likelihood based on the decision information and/or through applying rules, such as the common consortium rules used to determine a payment likelihood in activity 217 (FIG. 2) and/or activity 318 (FIG. 3). In some embodiments, a financial institution that is specified in a payment item as responsible for paying the payment item can provide information regularly (e.g., twice daily, hourly, half-hourly, on each transaction, etc.) to system 203 so as to allow system 203 to determine the payment likelihood, rather than the financial institution determining the payment likelihood (as done by second financial institution 204 in activity 217 (FIG. 2) and activity 318 (FIG. 3)). In some embodiments, the financial institution can provide less, as much, or more information to system 203 as is used by second financial institution 204 to determine the payment likelihood in activity 217 (FIG. 2) and/or activity 318 (FIG. 3).

In a number of embodiments, workflow 400 can continue with an activity 416 of system 203 providing the payment likelihood information and/or decision information generated in activity 415 to be stored in system 203.

In several embodiments, workflow 400 can continue with an activity 417 of system 203 storing the payment likelihood information and/or decision information generated in activity 415 with or without a timestamp when the determination was made, in system 203, and system 203 can store the information and/or timestamp in database 111 (FIG. 1).

In many embodiments, workflow 400 can continue with an activity 418 of system 203 sending a response to system first financial institution 202, and/or first financial institution 202 receiving the response from system 203. Activity 417 can be similar to activity 218 (FIG. 2), activity 220 (FIG. 2), activity 319 (FIG. 3), and/or activity 321 (FIG. 3). The response can include the decision information and/or the payment response likelihood information, as determined in activity 415, and/or other risk factors, such as whether the account was recently opened.

In several embodiments, workflow 400 can continue with an activity 419 of first financial institution 202 determining whether to approve or deny the transaction, actually approving or denying the transaction, storing the approval or denial, and/or notifying consumer 201 of such approval or denial. Activity 422 can be similar or identical to activity 221 (FIG. 2) and/or activity 322 (FIG. 3). In some embodiments, workflow 400 can optionally send the payment decision information to system 203, as described in activities 323 and 324 in FIG. 3.

Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 5 illustrates a flow chart for a method 500 to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item, according to an embodiment. Method 500 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Method 500 can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of method 500 can be performed in the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of method 500 can be performed in any suitable order. In still other embodiments, one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of method 500 can be combined or skipped. Method 500 can be similar or identical to the acts performed by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in workflow 200 (FIG. 2). In many embodiments, the payment item can include one of a check or an ACH item.

Referring to FIG. 5, method 500 can include a block 501 of providing a processing mechanism in data communication through a network with a first entity and a plurality of depository financial institutions. The first entity can be similar or identical to first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4). The processing mechanism can be similar or identical to system 110 (FIG. 1) and/or system 203 (FIGS. 2-4). The network can be similar or identical to network 120 (FIG. 1). The depository financial institutions can be similar or identical to financial institutions 131-134 (FIG. 1), first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4), and/or second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3). In some embodiments, the plurality of depository financial institutions can include a second entity. The second entity can be similar or identical to second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3). In some embodiments, the second entity can be specified by the payment item as being responsible for paying the payment item. In many embodiments, the first entity can be different from the second entity. In some embodiments, the payment item can be a check, the first entity can be a depository financial institution receiving the check for deposit, and the second entity can be a depository financial institution against which the check has been drawn. In other embodiments, the payment item can be an ACH item, the first entity can be an originating depository financial institution (ODFI) for the ACH item, and the second entity can be a receiving depository financial institution (RDFI) for the ACH item. In a number of embodiments, the first entity can be a payment processor, and the second entity can be a financial institution.

In many embodiments, method 500 additionally can include a block 502 of receiving a first inquiry at the processing mechanism through the network from the first entity. The first inquiry can be similar or identical to the inquiry sent from first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4) to system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 214 (FIG. 2). In various embodiments, the first inquiry can be received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item. For example, the first entity can receive the payment item similarly or identically to first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4) receiving the payment item in activity 212 (FIG. 2).

In some embodiments, method 500 further can include a block 503 of storing the first inquiry received from the first entity along with a first timestamp that indicates when the first inquiry was received from the first entity. Block 503 of storing the first inquiry can be similar or identical to activity 215 (FIG. 2) of system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) storing the inquiry sent from first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4).

In many embodiments, method 500 additionally can include a block 504 of sending a second inquiry from the processing mechanism through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry. The second inquiry can be similar or identical to the inquiry sent from system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) to second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3) in activity 216 (FIG. 2), and block 504 can be similar or identical to activity 216 (FIG. 2). In various embodiments, the second inquiry can be based at least in part on the first inquiry. In some embodiments, the first and/or second inquiries can include a routing number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; an account number of the account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item; a payment amount that is specified by the payment item; an identifier of the first entity; a transaction channel identifier that indicates the channel through which a transacting entity presented the payment item to the first entity; a payment distribution method identifier that indicates how the transacting entity requested to be paid for the payment item by the first entity; an account number of the first entity associated with the transacting entity; and/or, if the payment item is a check, a serial number of the check. In a number of embodiments, the first inquiry can include an identifier linked to the account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item.

In some embodiments, method 500 further can include a block 505 of receiving a first response at the processing mechanism through the network from the second entity. The first response can be similar or identical to the response sent from second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3) to system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 218 (FIG. 2), and block 505 can be similar or identical to activity 281 (FIG. 2). In various embodiments, the first response can be sent by the second entity in real time in response to receiving the second inquiry.

In many embodiments, method 500 additionally can include a block 506 of storing the first response received from the second entity along with a second timestamp that indicates when the first response was received from the second entity. Block 506 of storing the first response can be similar or identical to activity 219 (FIG. 2) of system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) storing the response sent from second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3).

In some embodiments, method 500 further can include a block 507 of sending a second response from the processing mechanism through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first response. The second response can be similar or identical to the response sent from system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) to first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 220 (FIG. 2), and block 507 can be similar to activity 220 (FIG. 2). In various embodiments, the second response can be sent within 30 seconds of receiving the first inquiry. In some embodiments, the second response can be based at least in part on the first response. In some embodiments, the first and/or second responses each can include a payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity that indicates a likelihood of the second entity to pay the payment item. The payment likelihood indicator can be similar or identical to the payment likelihood indicator determined by second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3) in activity 217 (FIG. 2). In various embodiments, the payment likelihood indicator can be based at least in part on a current status and a current available balance of an account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item for payment of the payment item. In a number of embodiments, the payment likelihood indicator in the first and/or second responses can include an indication of whether or not the second entity guarantees payment of the payment item. In many embodiments, the payment likelihood indicator in the first and/or second responses can include a score. The score can be similar or identical to the payment likelihood score determined by second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3) in activity 217 (FIG. 2). In various embodiments, the first and/or second responses each can further include one or more reason indicators to explain the payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity. The reason indicators can be similar or identical to the reason indicators determined by second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3) in activity 217 (FIG. 2).

Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart for a method 600 to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item, according to an embodiment. Method 600 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Method 600 can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of method 600 can be performed in the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of method 600 can be performed in any suitable order. In still other embodiments, one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of method 600 can be combined or skipped. Method 600 can be similar or identical to the acts performed by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in workflow 300 (FIG. 3). In many embodiments, the payment item can include one of a check or an ACH item.

Referring to FIG. 6, method 600 can include a block 601 of receiving a first inquiry through a network from a first entity. The first entity can be similar or identical to first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4). The network can be similar or identical to network 120 (FIG. 1). The first inquiry can be similar or identical to the inquiry sent from first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4) to system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 314 (FIG. 3), and block 610 can be similar or identical to activity 315 (FIG. 3). In a number of embodiments, the first inquiry can be received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item. For example, the first entity can receive the payment item similarly or identical to first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4) receiving the payment item in activity 312 (FIG. 3).

In many embodiments, method 600 additionally can include a block 602 of determining a routing decision of whether or not to route the first inquiry to a second entity. Block 602 of determining the routing decision can be similar or identical to activity 315 (FIG. 3) of system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) determining whether to route the inquiry to second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3). The second entity can be similar or identical to second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3). In many embodiments, the first entity can be different from the second entity. In various embodiments, the second entity can be a depository financial institution that is specified by the payment item as responsible for paying the payment item. In a number of embodiments, the routing decision can be based at least in part on a risk of non-payment of the payment item by the second entity. In some embodiments, the payment item can be a check, the first entity can be a depository financial institution receiving the check for deposit, and the second entity can be a depository financial institution against which the check has been drawn. In other embodiments, the payment item can be an ACH item, the first entity can be an originating depository financial institution (ODFI) for the ACH item, and the second entity can be a receiving depository financial institution (RDFI) for the ACH item.

In several embodiments, determining the routing decision can include determining the routing decision based at least on part on account data received from a plurality of financial institutions for accounts maintained by the financial institutions. The financial institutions can be similar or identical to financial institutions 131-134 (FIG. 1), first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4), and/or second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3). In various embodiments, the account data can be received before receiving the first inquiry. In many embodiments, the plurality of financial institutions can include the second entity. In some embodiments, the payment item can specify for payment a first account of the accounts. In a number of embodiments, the first account can be maintained by the second entity. In some embodiments, the account data can include first account data for the first account.

In various embodiments, determining the routing decision further can include determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account is not valid. In many embodiments, determining the routing decision further can include determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account has been closed for a predetermined amount of time. In a number of embodiments, determining the routing decision further can include determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when the payment item comprises an ACH item and it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account has a post no debits status. In some embodiments, determining the routing decision further can include determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when the payment item comprises a check and it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account has a stop payment on the check. In several embodiments, determining the routing decision further can include determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when the payment item comprises a check and it is determined, based on the first account data, the first account uses positive pay verification. In various embodiments, determining the routing decision further can include determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when it is determined, based on the first account data, the payment item is likely a duplicate. In many embodiments, determining the routing decision further can include determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when, based on the first account data, a payment amount of payment item is determined to be below a predetermined threshold amount.

In some embodiments, method 600 further can include, if the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity, a block 603 of sending a first response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry. Block 603 can be similar or identical to activity 316 (FIG. 3), and the first response can be similar or identical to the response sent from system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) to first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 316 (FIG. 3). In some embodiments, sending the first response to the first entity can include sending the first response such that the first response includes information derived in determining the routing decision. For example, the information can be similar or identical to the decision information generated by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 315 (FIG. 3).

In certain embodiments, method 600 can optionally include, if the routing decision is to route the first inquiry to the second entity, a block 604 of sending an informational message through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry. In some embodiments, the informational message can include information derived from determining the routing decision. For example, the information can be similar or identical to the decision information generated by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 315 (FIG. 3), and block 604 can be similar or identical to activity 317 (FIG. 3).

In many embodiments, method 600 additionally can include, if the routing decision is to route the first inquiry to the second entity, after block 602 or block 604, a block 605 of sending a second inquiry through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry. The second inquiry can be similar or identical to the inquiry sent from system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) to second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3) in activity 317 (FIG. 3), and block 605 can be similar to activity 317 (FIG. 3). In various embodiments, the second inquiry can be based at least in part on the first inquiry. In some embodiments, the first and/or second inquiries can include a routing number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; an account number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; a payment amount that is specified by the payment item; an identifier of the first entity; a transaction channel identifier that indicates the channel through which a transacting entity presented the payment item to the first entity; a payment distribution method identifier that indicates how the transacting entity requested to be paid for the payment item by the first entity; an account number of the first entity associated with the transacting entity; and/or, if the payment item is a check, a serial number of the check. In some embodiments, sending the second inquiry to the second entity can include sending the second inquiry such that the second inquiry further includes information derived from determining the routing decision. For example, the information can be similar or identical to the decision information generated by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 315 (FIG. 3).

In certain embodiments, method 600 can optionally include, such as in some embodiments when block 604 was skipped, a block 606 of receiving a request for additional information through the network from the second entity.

In certain embodiments, method 600 can further optionally include, after block 606, a block 607 of sending an informational message through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the request for additional information. The informational message can include information derived from determining the routing decision. For example, the information can be similar or identical to the decision information generated by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 315 (FIG. 3). Blocks 606 and 607 can be similar to activity 317 (FIG. 3).

In many embodiments, method 600 additionally can include, after block 605 or block 607, a block 608 of receiving a second response through the network from the second entity. The first response can be similar or identical to the response sent from second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3) to system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 319 (FIG. 3), and block 608 can be similar or identical to activity 319 (FIG. 3). In various embodiments, the first response can be sent by the second entity in real time in response to receiving the second inquiry.

In some embodiments, method 600 further can include a block 609 of storing the second response received from the second entity along with a timestamp that indicates when the second response was received from the second entity. Block 609 of storing the second response can be similar or identical to activity 320 (FIG. 3) of system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) storing the response sent from second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3).

In many embodiments, method 600 additionally can include a block 610 of sending a third response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the second response. The third response can be similar or identical to the response sent from system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) to first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 321 (FIG. 3), and block 610 can be similar or identical to activity 321 (FIG. 3). In various embodiments, the third response can be based at least in part on the second response. In some embodiments, the second and/or third responses can include a payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity that indicates a likelihood of the second entity to pay the payment item. The payment likelihood indicator can be similar or identical to the payment likelihood indicator determined by second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3) in activity 318 (FIG. 3). In various embodiments, the payment likelihood indicator can be based at least in part on a current status and a current available balance of an account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item for payment of the payment item. In some embodiments, the one or more processing modules (e.g., system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) can be in data communication through the network with a plurality of financial institutions that have each agreed to apply common standards for determining the payment likelihood indicator. The financial institutions can be similar or identical to financial institutions 131-134 (FIG. 1), first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4), and/or second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3). The common standards can be similar or identical to the common consortium rules described above in connection with activity 318 (FIG. 3). In several embodiments, the second entity can be any one of the plurality of financial institutions, as specified by the payment item. In some embodiments, sending the third response to the first entity can include sending the third response such that the third response further includes information derived from determining the routing decision. For example, the information can be similar or identical to the decision information generated by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 315 (FIG. 3).

In a number of embodiments, the payment likelihood indicator in the second and/or third responses can include an indication of whether or not the second entity guarantees payment of the payment item. In many embodiments, the payment likelihood indicator in the second and/or third responses can include a score. The score can be similar or identical to the payment likelihood score determined by second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3) in activity 217 (FIG. 2). In various embodiments, the second and/or third responses each can further include one or more reason indicators to explain the payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity. The reason indicators can be similar or identical to the reason indicators determined by second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3) in activity 217 (FIG. 2). In various embodiments, one of the first response or the third response can be sent within 30 seconds of receiving the first inquiry.

In certain embodiments, method 600 optionally can include, after block 603 or block 610, a block 611 of sending an informational message through the network to the second entity including information derived from determining the routing decision. For example, the information can be similar or identical to the decision information generated by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 315 (FIG. 3).

In certain embodiments, method 600 optionally can include, after block 603 or block 610, a block 612 of receiving a first payment decision message through the network from the first entity that indicates whether the first entity paid the payment item. For example, the first payment decision message can be similar to the payment decision message received by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 323 (FIG. 3), and block 612 can be similar or identical to activity 323 (FIG. 3).

In certain embodiments, method 600 can include, after block 612, a block 613 of sending a second payment decision message through the network to the second entity, the second payment decision message being based at least in part on the first payment decision message. For example, the second payment decision message can be similar to the payment decision message sent by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 325 (FIG. 3), and block 613 can be similar or identical to activity 325 (FIG. 3). In many embodiments, sending the second payment decision message to the second entity can include sending the second payment message such that the second payment message further includes information derived from determining the routing decision. For example, the information can be similar or identical to the decision information generated by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 315 (FIG. 3).

Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 7 illustrates a flow chart for a method 700 to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item, according to an embodiment. Method 700 is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. Method 700 can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of method 700 can be performed in the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of method 700 can be performed in any suitable order. In still other embodiments, one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of method 700 can be combined or skipped. Method 700 can be similar or identical to the acts performed by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in workflow 400 (FIG. 5). In many embodiments, the payment item can include one of a check or an ACH item.

Referring to FIG. 7, method 700 can include a block 701 of receiving at least hourly updated account data comprising current statuses and current available balances of accounts maintained by one or more depository financial institutions. The financial institutions can be similar or identical to financial institutions 131-134 (FIG. 1), first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4), and/or second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3).

In many embodiments, method 700 additionally can include a block 702 of receiving an inquiry through a network from a first entity. The first entity can be similar or identical to first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4). The network can be similar or identical to network 120 (FIG. 1). The inquiry can be similar or identical to the inquiry sent from first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4) to system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 414 (FIG. 4), and block 702 can be similar or identical to activity 414 (FIG. 4). In a number of embodiments, the inquiry can be received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item. For example, the first entity can receive the payment item similarly or identical to first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4) receiving the payment item in activity 412 (FIG. 3). In various embodiments, the payment item can specify a second entity as responsible for paying the payment item. The second entity can be similar or identical to second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3). In many embodiments, the first entity can be different from the second entity. In some embodiments, the payment item can specify an account maintained by the second entity for payment of the payment item. In a number of embodiments, one of the one or more depository financial institutions can include the second entity.

In a number of embodiments, the payment item can be a check, the first entity can be a depository financial institution receiving the check for deposit, and the second entity can be a depository financial institution against which the check has been drawn. In other embodiments, the payment item can be an ACH item, the first entity can be an originating depository financial institution (ODFI) for the ACH item, and the second entity can be a receiving depository financial institution (RDFI) for the ACH item. In several embodiments, the inquiry can include a routing number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; an account number maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item; a payment amount that is specified by the payment item; an identifier of the first entity; a transaction channel identifier that indicates the channel through which a transacting entity presented the payment item to the first entity; a payment distribution method identifier that indicates how the transacting entity requested to be paid for the payment item by the first entity; an account number of the first entity associated with the transacting entity; and/or, if the payment item is a check, a serial number of the check.

In some embodiments, method 700 further can include a block 703 of determining a payment likelihood indicator based at least in part on a status and an available balance of the account as updated by the updated account data. The payment likelihood indicator can be similar or identical to the payment likelihood indicator determined by second financial institution 204 (FIGS. 2-3) in activity 415 (FIG. 4), and block 703 can be similar to activity 415 (FIG. 4).

In many embodiments, method 700 additionally can include a block 704 of storing the payment likelihood indicator. For example, block 704 of storing the payment likelihood indicator can be similar or identical to activity 417 (FIG. 4) of system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) storing the payment likelihood indicator.

In some embodiments, method 700 further can include a block 705 of sending a response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the inquiry. The response can be similar or identical to the response sent from system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) to first financial institution 202 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 418 (FIG. 4), and block 705 can be similar or identical to activity 418 (FIG. 4). In a number of embodiments, the response can include the payment likelihood indicator.

In various embodiments, the payment likelihood indicator can indicate a likelihood of the second entity to pay the payment item. In a number of embodiments, the payment likelihood indicator in the response can include an indication of whether or not the second entity guarantees payment of the payment item. In many embodiments, the payment likelihood indicator in the response can include a score. The score can be similar or identical to the payment likelihood score determined by system 203 (FIGS. 2-4) in activity 415 (FIG. 4). In various embodiments, the response can further include one or more reason indicators to explain the payment likelihood indicator. The reason indicators can be similar or identical to the reason indicators determined by system 203 (FIGS. 2-3) in activity 415 (FIG. 4). In various embodiments, the response can be sent within 30 seconds of receiving the inquiry.

Returning to FIG. 1, as described above, system 110 can include one or more modules, such as communications module 112, data module 113, risk engine 114, and/or likelihood calculation engine 115. System 110 and the modules therein are merely exemplary and are not limited to the embodiments presented herein. System 110 can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In some embodiments, certain elements or modules of system 110 can perform various procedures, processes, and/or acts. In other embodiments, the procedures, processes, and/or acts can be performed by other suitable elements or modules.

In many embodiments, communications module 112 can at least partially perform block 502 (FIG. 5) of receiving a first inquiry at the processing mechanism through the network from the first entity, block 504 (FIG. 5) of sending a second inquiry from the processing mechanism through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry, block 505 (FIG. 5) of receiving a first response at the processing mechanism through the network from the second entity, block 507 (FIG. 5) of sending a second response from the processing mechanism through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first response, block 601 (FIG. 6) of receiving a first inquiry through a network from a first entity, block 603 (FIG. 6) of sending a first response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry, block 604 (FIG. 6) of sending an informational message through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry, block 605 (FIG. 6) of sending a second inquiry through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry, block 606 (FIG. 6) of receiving a request for additional information through the network from the second entity, block 607 (FIG. 6) of sending an informational message through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the request for additional information, block 608 (FIG. 6) of receiving a second response through the network from the second entity, block 610 (FIG. 6) of sending a third response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the second response, block 611 (FIG. 6) of sending an informational message through the network to the second entity including information derived from determining the routing decision, block 612 (FIG. 6) of receiving a first payment decision message through the network from the first entity that indicates whether the first entity paid the payment item, block 613 (FIG. 6) of sending a second payment decision message through the network to the second entity, block 701 (FIG. 7) of receiving at least hourly updated account data comprising current statuses and current available balances of accounts maintained by one or more depository financial institutions, block 702 (FIG. 7) of receiving an inquiry through a network from a first entity, and/or block 705 (FIG. 7) of sending a response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the inquiry.

In several embodiments, data module 113 can at least partially perform block 503 (FIG. 5) of storing the first inquiry received from the first entity along with a first timestamp that indicates when the first inquiry was received from the first entity, block 506 (FIG. 5) of storing the first response received from the second entity along with a second timestamp that indicates when the first response was received from the second entity, block 609 (FIG. 6) of storing the second response received from the second entity along with a timestamp that indicates when the second response was received from the second entity, and/or block 704 (FIG. 7) of storing the payment likelihood indicator. In some embodiments, module 113 also can perform portions of block 602 (FIG. 6) and block 703 (FIG. 7).

In many embodiments, risk engine 114 can at least partially perform block 602 (FIG. 6) of determining a routing decision of whether or not to route the first inquiry to a second entity. Furthermore, as explained above for activity 320 (FIG. 3), some embodiments of risk engine 114 also can at least partially perform block 609 (FIG. 6) when block 320 (FIG. 3) refines or further determines the payment likelihood after receiving the originally determined payment likelihood from the second financial institution.

In several embodiments, likelihood calculation engine 115 can at least partially perform block 703 (FIG. 7) of determining a payment likelihood indicator based at least in part on a status and an available balance of the account as updated by the updated account data

In various embodiments, the techniques described herein can beneficially connect in real time a depository bank, an originator, or a payment acceptor with information from the paying bank about a payment item in order to deliver more intelligence as to the likelihood that the payment item will pay. These techniques can advantageously provide the paying bank with insight as to check and/or ACH items that will clear in the near term. In many embodiments, the techniques described herein can allow financial institutions to connect to a single entity (e.g., server 110 (FIG. 1) or server 203 (FIGS. 2-4) to connect to multiple financial institutions for query and responses, and/or to access fraud-prevention services.

Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 8 illustrates a computer 800, all of which or a portion of which can be suitable for implementing an embodiment of at least a portion of system 110 (FIG. 1) and/or system 203 (FIGS. 2-4), and/or the techniques described in workflow 200 (FIG. 2), workflow 300 (FIG. 3), workflow 400 (FIG. 4), method 500 (FIG. 5), method 600 (FIG. 6), and/or method 700 (FIG. 7). Computer 800 includes a chassis 802 containing one or more circuit boards (not shown), a USB (universal serial bus) port 812, a Compact Disc Read-Only Memory (CD-ROM) and/or Digital Video Disc (DVD) drive 816, and a hard drive 814. A representative block diagram of the elements included on the circuit boards inside chassis 802 is shown in FIG. 9. A central processing unit (CPU) 910 in FIG. 9 is coupled to a system bus 914 in FIG. 9. In various embodiments, the architecture of CPU 910 can be compliant with any of a variety of commercially distributed architecture families.

Continuing with FIG. 9, system bus 914 also is coupled to memory 908 that includes both read only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM). Non-volatile portions of memory storage unit 908 or the ROM can be encoded with a boot code sequence suitable for restoring computer 800 (FIG. 8) to a functional state after a system reset. In addition, memory 908 can include microcode such as a Basic Input-Output System (BIOS). In some examples, the one or more memory storage units of the various embodiments disclosed herein can comprise memory storage unit 908, a USB-equipped electronic device, such as, an external memory storage unit (not shown) coupled to universal serial bus (USB) port 812 (FIGS. 8-9), hard drive 814 (FIGS. 8-9), and/or CD-ROM or DVD drive 816 (FIGS. 8-9). In the same or different examples, the one or more memory storage units of the various embodiments disclosed herein can comprise an operating system, which can be a software program that manages the hardware and software resources of a computer and/or a computer network. The operating system can perform basic tasks such as, for example, controlling and allocating memory, prioritizing the processing of instructions, controlling input and output devices, facilitating networking, and managing files. Some examples of common operating systems can comprise Microsoft® Windows® operating system (OS), Mac® OS, UNIX® OS, and Linux® OS.

As used herein, “processor” and/or “processing module” means any type of computational circuit, such as but not limited to a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a controller, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a graphics processor, a digital signal processor, or any other type of processor or processing circuit capable of performing the desired functions. In some examples, the one or more processors of the various embodiments disclosed herein can comprise CPU 910.

In the depicted embodiment of FIG. 9, various I/O devices such as a disk controller 904, a graphics adapter 924, a video controller 902, a keyboard adapter 926, a mouse adapter 906, a network adapter 920, and other I/O devices 922 can be coupled to system bus 914. Keyboard adapter 926 and mouse adapter 906 are coupled to a keyboard 804 (FIGS. 8 and 9) and a mouse 810 (FIGS. 8 and 9), respectively, of computer 800 (FIG. 8). While graphics adapter 924 and video controller 902 are indicated as distinct units in FIG. 9, video controller 902 can be integrated into graphics adapter 924, or vice versa in other embodiments. Video controller 902 is suitable for refreshing a monitor 806 (FIGS. 8 and 9) to display images on a screen 808 (FIG. 8) of computer 800 (FIG. 8). Disk controller 904 can control hard drive 814 (FIGS. 8 and 9), USB port 812 (FIGS. 8 and 9), and CD-ROM or DVD drive 816 (FIGS. 8 and 9). In other embodiments, distinct units can be used to control each of these devices separately.

In some embodiments, network adapter 920 can comprise and/or be implemented as a WNIC (wireless network interface controller) card (not shown) plugged or coupled to an expansion port (not shown) in computer system 800 (FIG. 8). In other embodiments, the WNIC card can be a wireless network card built into computer system 800 (FIG. 8). A wireless network adapter can be built into computer system 800 (FIG. 8) by having wireless communication capabilities integrated into the motherboard chipset (not shown), or implemented via one or more dedicated wireless communication chips (not shown), connected through a PCI (peripheral component interconnector) or a PCI express bus of computer system 800 (FIG. 8) or USB port 812 (FIG. 8). In other embodiments, network adapter 920 can comprise and/or be implemented as a wired network interface controller card (not shown).

Although many other components of computer 800 (FIG. 8) are not shown, such components and their interconnection are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, further details concerning the construction and composition of computer 800 and the circuit boards inside chassis 802 (FIG. 8) need not be discussed herein.

When computer 800 in FIG. 8 is running, program instructions stored on a USB drive in USB port 812, on a CD-ROM or DVD in CD-ROM and/or DVD drive 816, on hard drive 814, or in memory 908 (FIG. 9) are executed by CPU 910 (FIG. 9). A portion of the program instructions, stored on these devices, can be suitable for carrying out all or at least part of the techniques described herein.

Although computer system 800 is illustrated as a desktop computer in FIG. 8, there can be examples where computer system 800 may take a different form factor while still having functional elements similar to those described for computer system 800. In some embodiments, computer system 800 may comprise a single computer, a single server, or a cluster or collection of computers or servers, or a cloud of computers or servers. Typically, a cluster or collection of servers can be used when the demand on computer system 800 exceeds the reasonable capability of a single server or computer. In certain embodiments, computer system 800 may comprise a portable computer, such as a laptop computer. In certain other embodiments, computer system 800 may comprise a mobile device, such as a smartphone. In certain additional embodiments, computer system 800 may comprise an embedded system.

Although real-time determination of funds availability for check and ACH items has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure of embodiments is intended to be illustrative of the scope of the disclosure and is not intended to be limiting. It is intended that the scope of the disclosure shall be limited only to the extent required by the appended claims. For example, to one of ordinary skill in the art, it will be readily apparent that any element of FIGS. 1-9 may be modified, and that the foregoing discussion of certain of these embodiments does not necessarily represent a complete description of all possible embodiments. For example, one or more of the procedures, processes, or activities of FIGS. 2-7 may include different procedures, processes, and/or activities and be performed by many different modules, in many different orders.

Replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes reconstruction and not repair. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with regard to specific embodiments. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced, however, are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all of the claims, unless such benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are stated in such claim.

Moreover, embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not dedicated to the public under the doctrine of dedication if the embodiments and/or limitations: (1) are not expressly claimed in the claims; and (2) are or are potentially equivalents of express elements and/or limitations in the claims under the doctrine of equivalents. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item, the method comprising: providing a processing mechanism in data communication through a network with a first entity and a plurality of depository financial institutions, the plurality of depository financial institutions comprising a second entity; receiving a first inquiry at the processing mechanism through the network from the first entity, the first inquiry being received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item; storing the first inquiry received from the first entity; sending a second inquiry from the processing mechanism through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry, the second inquiry being based at least in part on the first inquiry; receiving a first response at the processing mechanism through the network from the second entity, the first response being sent by the second entity in real time in response to receiving the second inquiry; storing the first response received from the second entity; and sending a second response from the processing mechanism through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first response, the second response being based at least in part on the first response, wherein: the second entity is specified by the payment item as being responsible for paying the payment item; the first entity is different from the second entity; and the first and second responses each comprise a payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity that indicates a likelihood of the second entity to pay the payment item, the payment likelihood indicator being based at least in part on a current status and a current available balance of an account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item for payment of the payment item.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein: the payment item comprises a check; and the first entity is a depository financial institution receiving the check for deposit; and the second entity is a depository financial institution against which the check has been drawn.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein: the payment item comprises an ACH item; the first entity is an originating depository financial institution for the ACH item; and the second entity is a receiving depository financial institution for the ACH item.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein: the first entity is at least one of a payment processor or a third party acting on behalf of an originating depository financial institution; and the second entity is a financial institution.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein: the first inquiry comprises an identifier linked to the account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the second inquiry comprises: a routing number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; an account number of the account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item; a payment amount that is specified by the payment item; an identifier of the first entity; a transaction channel identifier that indicates the channel through which a transacting entity presented the payment item to the first entity; a payment distribution method identifier that indicates how the transacting entity requested to be paid for the payment item by the first entity; an account number of the first entity associated with the transacting entity; and if the payment item is a check, a serial number of the check.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the payment likelihood indicator in the first and second responses comprises an indication of whether or not the second entity guarantees payment of the payment item.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the payment likelihood indicator in the first and second responses comprises a score.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the first and second responses each further comprise one or more reason indicators to explain the payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein: the payment item is one of a check or an ACH item; the second response is sent within 30 seconds of receiving the first inquiry; storing the first inquiry comprises storing the first inquiry along with a first timestamp that indicates when the first inquiry was received from the first entity; and storing the first response comprises storing the first response along with a second timestamp that indicates when the first response was received from the second entity.
 11. A system to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item, the system comprising: one or more processing modules in data communication through a network with a first entity and a plurality of depository financial institutions, the plurality of depository financial institutions comprising a second entity; and one or more non-transitory memory storage modules storing computing instructions configured to run on the one or more processing modules and perform the acts of: receiving a first inquiry through the network from the first entity, the first inquiry being received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item; storing the first inquiry received from the first entity; sending a second inquiry through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry, the second inquiry being based at least in part on the first inquiry; receiving a first response through the network from the second entity, the first response being sent by the second entity in real time in response to receiving the second inquiry; storing the first response received from the second entity; and sending a second response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first response, the second response being based at least in part on the first response, wherein: the second entity is specified by the payment item as being responsible for paying the payment item; the first entity is different from the second entity; and the first and second responses each comprise a payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity that indicates a likelihood of the second entity to pay the payment item, the payment likelihood indicator being based at least in part on a current status and a current available balance of an account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item for payment of the payment item.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein: the payment item comprises a check; and the first entity is a depository financial institution receiving the check for deposit; and the second entity is a depository financial institution against which the check has been drawn.
 13. The system of claim 11, wherein: the payment item comprises an ACH item; the first entity is an originating depository financial institution for the ACH item; and the second entity is a receiving depository financial institution for the ACH item.
 14. The system of claim 11, wherein: the first entity is at least one of a payment processor or a third party acting on behalf of an originating depository financial institution; and the second entity is a financial institution.
 15. The system of claim 11, wherein: the first inquiry comprises an identifier for the account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item.
 16. The system of claim 11, wherein the first and second inquiries comprise: a routing number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; an account number of the account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item; a payment amount that is specified by the payment item; an identifier of the first entity; a transaction channel identifier that indicates the channel through which a transacting entity presented the payment item to the first entity; a payment distribution method identifier that indicates how the transacting entity requested to be paid for the payment item by the first entity; an account number of the first entity associated with the transacting entity; and if the payment item is a check, a serial number of the check.
 17. The system of claim 11, wherein the payment likelihood indicator in the first and second responses comprises an indication of whether or not the second entity guarantees payment of the payment item.
 18. The system of claim 11, wherein the payment likelihood indicator in the first and second responses comprises a score.
 19. The system of claim 11, wherein the first and second responses each further comprise one or more reason indicators to explain the payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity.
 20. The system of claim 11, wherein: the payment item is one of a check or an ACH item; the second response is sent within 30 seconds of receiving the first inquiry; storing the first inquiry comprises storing the first inquiry along with a first timestamp that indicates when the first inquiry was received from the first entity; and storing the first response comprises storing the first response along with a second timestamp that indicates when the first response was received from the second entity.
 21. A method to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item, the method being implemented via execution of computer instructions configured to run at one or more processing modules and configured to be stored at one or more non-transitory memory storage modules, the method comprising: receiving a first inquiry through a network from a first entity, wherein the first inquiry is received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item; determining a routing decision of whether or not to route the first inquiry to a second entity, wherein the second entity is a depository financial institution that is specified by the payment item as responsible for paying the payment item, and the routing decision is based at least in part on a risk of non-payment of the payment item by the second entity; if the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity: sending a first response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry; and if the routing decision is to route the first inquiry to the second entity: sending a second inquiry through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry, the second inquiry being based at least in part on the first inquiry; receiving a second response through the network from the second entity, the second response being sent by the second entity in real time in response to receiving the second inquiry; storing the second response received from the second entity; and sending a third response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the second response, the third response being based at least in part on the second response, wherein: the first entity is different from the second entity.
 22. The method of claim 21, wherein: determining the routing decision comprises determining the routing decision based at least in part on account data received from a plurality of financial institutions for accounts maintained by the financial institutions; the account data is received before receiving the first inquiry; the plurality of financial institutions comprise the second entity; the payment item specifies payment from a first account of the accounts; the first account is maintained by the second entity; and the account data comprise first account data for the first account.
 23. The method of claim 22, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account is not valid.
 24. The method of claim 22, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account has been closed for at least a predetermined amount of time.
 25. The method of claim 22, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when the payment item comprises an ACH item and when it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account has a post no debits status.
 26. The method of claim 22, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when the payment item comprises a check and when it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account has a stop payment on the check.
 27. The method of claim 22, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when the payment item comprises a check and when it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account uses positive pay verification.
 28. The method of claim 22, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when it is determined, based on the first account data, the payment item is likely a duplicate.
 29. The method of claim 22, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when, based on the first account data, a payment amount of the payment item is determined to be below a predetermined threshold amount.
 30. The method of claim 21, wherein: the payment item comprises a check; and the first entity is a depository financial institution receiving the check for deposit; and the second entity is a depository financial institution against which the check has been drawn.
 31. The method of claim 21, wherein: the payment item comprises an ACH item; the first entity is an originating depository financial institution; and the second entity is a receiving depository financial institution.
 32. The method of claim 21, wherein the first and second inquiries comprise: a routing number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; an account number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; a payment amount that is specified by the payment item; an identifier of the first entity; a transaction channel identifier that indicates the channel through which a transacting entity presented the payment item to the first entity; a payment distribution method identifier that indicates how the transacting entity requested to be paid for the payment item by the first entity; an account number of the first entity associated with the transacting entity; and if the payment item is a check, a serial number of the check.
 33. The method of claim 21, wherein the second and third responses comprise a payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity that indicates a likelihood of the second entity to pay the payment item, the payment likelihood indicator being based at least in part on a current status and a current available balance of an account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item for payment of the payment item.
 34. The method of claim 33, wherein: the one or more processing modules are in data communication through the network with a plurality of financial institutions that each have agreed to apply common standards for determining the payment likelihood indicator; and the second entity is any one of the plurality of financial institutions, as specified by the payment item.
 35. The method of claim 33, wherein the payment likelihood indicator in the second and third responses comprises an indication of whether or not the second entity guarantees payment of the payment item.
 36. The method of claim 33, wherein the payment likelihood indicator in the second and third responses comprises a score.
 37. The method of claim 33, wherein the second and third responses each further comprise one or more reason indicators to explain the payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity.
 38. The method of claim 21, wherein: the payment item is one of a check or an ACH item; one of the first response or the third response is sent within 30 seconds of receiving the first inquiry; and storing the second response comprises storing the second response along with a timestamp that indicates when the second response was received from the second entity.
 39. The method of claim 21 further comprising, after sending one of the first response or third response to the first entity: receiving a first payment decision message through the network from the first entity that indicates whether the first entity paid the payment item; and sending a second payment decision message through the network to the second entity, the second payment decision message being based at least in part on the first payment decision message.
 40. The method of claim 39, wherein: sending the second payment decision message to the second entity comprises sending the second payment message such that the second payment message further comprises information derived from determining the routing decision.
 41. The method of claim 21, wherein at least one of: sending the first response to the first entity comprises sending the first response such that the first response comprises information derived from determining the routing decision; or sending the third response to the first entity comprises sending the third response such that the third response further comprises information derived from determining the routing decision.
 42. The method of claim 21, wherein: sending the second inquiry to the second entity comprises sending the second inquiry such that the second inquiry further comprises information derived from determining the routing decision.
 43. The method of claim 21 further comprising: after sending one of the first response or the third response to the first entity, sending an informational message through the network to the second entity comprising information derived from determining the routing decision.
 44. The method of claim 21 further comprising, after sending the second inquiry to the second entity and before receiving the second response from the second entity: receiving a request for additional information through the network from the second entity; and sending an informational message through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the request for additional information, the informational message comprising information derived from determining the routing decision.
 45. The method of claim 21 further comprising, after determining the routing decision and before sending the second inquiry to the second entity: sending an informational message through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry, the informational message comprising information derived from determining the routing decision.
 46. A system to facilitate determining an availability of funds for a payment item, the system comprising: one or more processing modules in data communication through a network with a first entity and a second entity; and one or more non-transitory memory storage modules storing computing instructions configured to run on the one or more processing modules and perform the acts of: receiving a first inquiry through the network from the first entity, wherein the first inquiry is received from the first entity in real time after the first entity receives the payment item; determining a routing decision of whether or not to route the first inquiry to the second entity, wherein the second entity is a depository financial institution that is specified by the payment item as responsible for paying the payment item, and the routing decision is based at least in part on a risk of non-payment of the payment item by the second entity; if the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity: sending a first response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry; and if the routing decision is to route the first inquiry to the second entity: sending a second inquiry through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry, the second inquiry being based at least in part on the first inquiry; receiving a second response through the network from the second entity, the second response being sent by the second entity in real time in response to receiving the second inquiry; storing the second response received from the second entity; and sending a third response through the network to the first entity in real time after receiving the second response, the third response being based at least in part on the second response, wherein: the first entity is different from the second entity.
 47. The system of claim 46, wherein: determining the routing decision comprises determining the routing decision based at least in part on account data received from a plurality of financial institutions for accounts maintained by the financial institutions; the account data is received before receiving the first inquiry; the plurality of financial institutions comprise the second entity; the payment item specifies payment from a first account of the accounts; the first account is maintained by the second entity; and the account data comprise first account data for the first account.
 48. The system of claim 47, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account is not valid.
 49. The system of claim 47, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account has been closed for at least a predetermined amount of time.
 50. The system of claim 47, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when the payment item comprises an ACH item and when it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account has a post no debits status.
 51. The system of claim 47, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when the payment item comprises a check and when it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account has a stop payment on the check.
 52. The system of claim 47, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when the payment item comprises a check and when it is determined, based on the first account data, that the first account uses positive pay verification.
 53. The system of claim 47, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when it is determined, based on the first account data, the payment item is likely a duplicate.
 54. The system of claim 47, wherein: determining the routing decision further comprises determining the routing decision such that the routing decision is to not route the first inquiry to the second entity when, based on the first account data, a payment amount of the payment item is determined to be below a predetermined threshold amount.
 55. The system of claim 46, wherein: the payment item comprises a check; and the first entity is a depository financial institution receiving the check for deposit; and the second entity is a depository financial institution against which the check has been drawn.
 56. The system of claim 46, wherein: the payment item comprises an ACH item; the first entity is an originating depository financial institution; and the second entity is a receiving depository financial institution.
 57. The system of claim 46, wherein the first and second inquiries comprise: a routing number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; an account number of the second entity that is specified by the payment item; a payment amount that is specified by the payment item; an identifier of the first entity; a transaction channel identifier that indicates the channel through which a transacting entity presented the payment item to the first entity; a payment distribution method identifier that indicates how the transacting entity requested to be paid for the payment item by the first entity; an account number of the first entity associated with the transacting entity; and if the payment item is a check, a serial number of the check.
 58. The system of claim 46, wherein the second and third responses comprise a payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity that indicates a likelihood of the second entity to pay the payment item, the payment likelihood indicator being based at least in part on a current status and a current available balance of an account maintained by the second entity that is specified by the payment item for payment of the payment item.
 59. The system of claim 58, wherein: the one or more processing modules are in data communication through the network with a plurality of financial institutions that each have agreed to apply common standards for determining the payment likelihood indicator; and the second entity is any one of the plurality of financial institutions, as specified by the payment item.
 60. The system of claim 58, wherein the payment likelihood indicator in the second and third responses comprises an indication of whether or not the second entity guarantees payment of the payment item.
 61. The system of claim 58, wherein the payment likelihood indicator in the second and third responses comprises a score.
 62. The system of claim 58, wherein the second and third responses each further comprise one or more reason indicators to explain the payment likelihood indicator provided by the second entity.
 63. The system of claim 46, wherein: the payment item is one of a check or an ACH item; one of the first response or the third response is sent within 30 seconds of receiving the first inquiry; and storing the second response comprises storing the second response along with a timestamp that indicates when the second response was received from the second entity.
 64. The system of claim 46, wherein the computing instructions are further configured to perform the acts of, after sending one of the first response or third response to the first entity: receiving a first payment decision message through the network from the first entity that indicates whether the first entity paid the payment item; and sending a second payment decision message through the network to the second entity, the second payment decision message being based at least in part on the first payment decision message.
 65. The system of claim 64, wherein: sending the second payment decision message to the second entity comprises sending the second payment message such that the second payment message further comprises information derived from determining the routing decision.
 66. The system of claim 46, wherein at least one of: sending the first response to the first entity comprises sending the first response such that the first response comprises information derived from determining the routing decision; or sending the third response to the first entity comprises sending the third response such that the third response further comprises information derived from determining the routing decision.
 67. The system of claim 46, wherein: sending the second inquiry to the second entity comprises sending the second inquiry such that the second inquiry further comprises information derived from determining the routing decision.
 68. The system of claim 46, wherein the computing instructions are further configured to perform the acts of: after sending one of the first response or the third response to the first entity, sending an informational message through the network to the second entity comprising information derived from determining the routing decision.
 69. The system of claim 46, wherein the computing instructions are further configured to perform the acts of, after sending the second inquiry to the second entity and before receiving the second response from the second entity: receiving a request for additional information through the network from the second entity; and sending an informational message through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the request for additional information, the informational message comprising information derived from determining the routing decision.
 70. The system of claim 46, wherein the computing instructions are further configured to perform the acts of, after determining the routing decision and before sending the second inquiry to the second entity: sending an informational message through the network to the second entity in real time after receiving the first inquiry, the informational message comprising information derived from determining the routing decision. 